Another 320/6 to 325i conversion

[DrGonzoPOW]

If i were to get a crane, its it a job that could be done in a back garden? Im fairly confident in mechanics once i have enough info on something. Its the same engine pretty much aint it ? So im sure Id at least be able to unbolt it all, and bolt another back in. It would just be a matter of water hoses and electircs that would trip me up. My worry is if i were to start it and not be able to finish then the car is then completely un-usable

[e21-Mark]

I did it at the roadside once many moons ago. I'd wait till Spring though!

[DrGonzoPOW]

Haha, im certainly going to wait till the weather and clocks change. Need to find me an engine then i guess. Would i be taking the engine off the gearbox in the car or would the whole thing come out and then swap the gearbox's over?

[e21-Mark]

Well when we did my old Mk3 Cortina, we got it up on ramps first, then the rear on stands. Whip the bonnet off to make life easier and protect it. Then unbolt the prop followed by bellhousing bolts. Once the bellhousing bolts are out, take the weight of the box on a trolley jack before undoing the gearbox mounts and wiggling it out and removing. Then undo all the pipes, wires, coolant hoses etc. Remove the rad and undo the engine mounts before finally undoing the exhaust downpipe. Time to lift out the old lump and throw it away. Service the new engine, change cam belt etc and it's time to redo all you undid, if that makes sense?

I'm no mechanic ( No shit! ) but so long as you're methodical and take your time, it's not all that hard to do. Honest.

I'm sure the real mechanics like Jason, Murran etc will happily offer sound advice.

You'll be so glad you did the swap.

[E21meister]

Do your research on the 'net (and the good ol' Haynes manual): the subject of engine swaps has been documented over & over again, it'll help you make a tasklist to plan what needs to be done and when.
It really is a logistics exercise; if you plan ahead and make a list of all the items you need and all the individual tasks you need to do, it isn't that hard for a competent mechanic. Just make sure you have a full day to do it (as in spring with of course decent weather) so you have weather and light on your side and an able assistant. Trying to do it on your own isn't something I'd recommend.

[DrGonzoPOW]

No, im sure ill be needing some help but im pretty up for having a go. I know Murran did his not long ago so fingers crossed he could help me out. Nas said he'd lend a hand too which would be nice. The electrics and belts are what i dont know about but im sure i can have a good crack at the majority. Will keep my eyes open for an engine from now till summer. Are there any things to consider when buying a 325 M20B25, things to look out for, years, mileage, common problems all that sort of thing ?

[e21-Mark]

You've got no electrics to worry about as you'll just be using all the original stuff. Between you, Nas & Murran you'll piss it.

[DrGonzoPOW]

May i as well not just go motronic if im going through all the hassle of the swap anyways ??

[e21-Mark]

You can do. It just means more work. Fuel line, battery in boot, ECU in glovebox etc. It's definately worth doing though.

[DrGonzoPOW]

Ah yeah, fuel lines. Would i need a different fuel pump too ? Maybe off to look at an engine tomora, its only a few miles away from me and its still in the car so i can hear it running.

[e21-Mark]

Actually I think you should be ok with lines. Maybe see if you can get the pump with the engine if the cars a breaker?

[DrGonzoPOW]

he's putting an s14 or whatever you call it in as far as i know. Think ive got a leccy 323 pump knocking about somewhere. Is the standard 320 gear box going to hold up to the extra power ? Sorry for all these questions btw

[e21-Mark]

Yeah, it'll be fine. Just check the condition of your clutch while you're at it.

[DrGonzoPOW]

Is that just a matter of a test drive ? Its on an auto box, that doesnt mate any difference at all does it ? Ta

[drjim]

You'll need to use the flywheel/clutch/box off your car if the original was on an auto. Obviously a new clutch kit in there while putting it all together.